i figured id try something to se if it would work, i added more fluid and took it for a short drive, it did great, didnt slip and when i pulled back in the yard, i checked the level in park at idle, yes it was overfilled quite a bit but fluid didnt come out of the dipstick tube until i shut the engine off? maybe this could help diagnose it better? yes i know its not good to overfill but im not leaving it overfilled just as an experiment. maybe you guys could help me save a few bucks, thanks in advance..

I've seen early design filters installed in 4L60e trans with factory deep pan.. the filter falls out of the pump.